TASFUED Postgraduate Student Emerges Second Runner-Up at 2026 National Teachers’ Excellence Awards

A postgraduate student of Tai Solarin Federal University of Education, Ijagun (TASFUED), Ogun State, Mrs Adeola Olufunke Akinsulure, has emerged second runner-up in the Public Senior Secondary School Teacher Category of the 2026 President’s Teachers’ and Schools’ Excellence Awards (PTSEA).

Akinsulure received the national recognition on Monday, October 5, 2026, during the World Teachers’ Day celebration and presentation of the awards at Eagle Square, Abuja.

The Vice-Chancellor of TASFUED, Professor Samuel Oladipo, commended Akinsulure for bringing recognition to the university, praising her courage, determination, discipline and hard work.

Oladipo described the achievement as a source of pride for the institution and a reflection of its commitment to quality teacher education, professional excellence and the development of educators capable of contributing to the transformation of Nigeria’s education sector.

He congratulated Akinsulure, noting that her recognition demonstrated the impact professionally trained, innovative and dedicated teachers could make in classrooms and beyon

The Vice-Chancellor added that the achievement reinforced the university’s mission to produce competent and innovative educators who could compete confidently and contribute meaningfully on the global stage.

He further noted that the award was particularly significant because it followed Akinsulure’s earlier selection among the top 10 finalists for the 2026 Global Teacher Prize.

According to him, the two recognitions demonstrate the quality and impact of teacher education promoted by TASFUED.

Oladipo urged Akinsulure to remain committed to excellence, innovation and service, assuring her that the university would continue supporting initiatives aimed at developing highly competent and globally relevant educators.

The President’s Teachers’ and Schools’ Excellence Awards, organised annually by the Federal Ministry of Education, recognise outstanding teachers, school administrators and schools for excellence, innovation, professionalism and contributions to improved educational outcomes.

The 2026 awards formed part of activities marking World Teachers’ Day. The selection process was digitised by the ministry to strengthen transparency, accountability and proper documentation in the assessment of nominees.

As part of her recognition, Akinsulure received a brand-new car.

The latest honour adds to a notable year for the educator, who was previously named among the top 10 finalists for the 2026 Global Teacher Prize, placing her among the 10 educators selected worldwide for the prestigious award.

The Global Teacher Prize identified her as a Biology teacher at Omole Senior Grammar School, Ikeja, Lagos, recognising her work in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education, girls’ empowerment, environmental education and innovative teaching.

Akinsulure has adopted innovative, low-cost teaching methods to make Biology more engaging and accessible to students. Her contributions also extend beyond the classroom through teacher training, mentorship, digital learning communities, environmental initiatives and programmes designed to empower girls.

Her achievement adds to TASFUED’s record of producing and developing educators who have distinguished themselves nationally and internationally.

The university has previously celebrated several students and graduates for outstanding achievements in the teaching profession.

In 2018, Ayodele Odeogbola, a graduate of the College of Vocational and Technical Education (COVTED), became the first Nigerian teacher to reach the top 50 of the Global Teacher Prize.

In 2019, Olalekan Adeeko emerged first runner-up in the President’s Teachers’ and Schools’ Excellence Award, while Adelana Owolabi Paul finished as second runner-up in 2022.

Dr Adewale Kayode also emerged second runner-up in 2023 and subsequently became one of the top 50 finalists for the 2025 Global Teacher Prize.

Congratulating Akinsulure on behalf of the university management and the TASFUED community, Oladipo expressed confidence that her achievement would inspire other educators and students to pursue excellence and contribute to the advancement of education in Nigeria.